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Hands On Review: Cowon D2 (2GB)

jessica — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 10:00:17 +0000

The Cowon D2 is the first ultra portable video player and first flash based touch screen player in its family. It has a similar appearance to the iRiver Clix, and the D2 has some significant difference under the hood: like the TV output, support lossless audio codecs like Flac and Ogg, and an SD/SDHC card slot for unlimited expansion. Recommendation- a protective case and a better set of headphones. The headphones I used along with testing the sound quality of the device are the Ultrasone HFI-2200 headphones.

Quick Overview

Audio: MP3, Ogg Vorbis, WMA, FLAC, APE, WAV, AAC (only on older firmware versions)
Video: MPEG4-SP (DivX, XviD, ...), WMV9 - 320 x 240, 30fps
Photo: JPEG (no size limit)
Screen: 2.5", 24 bit (16 million) color, 320 x 240, TFT-LCD
Dimensions: 78.0 x 55.4 x 16.6 mm (3.07 x 2.18 x 0.65 inches)
Weight: 91 g (3.21 oz)
Rated battery life: 52 hours for music, 10 hours for video
Other features: Touch screen, SD/SDHC card slot, TV-out, FM radio, voice/line-in/FM recorder, BBE sound enhancements, user-configurable effect presets, text viewer, date/ time/alarm, bookmarks, on-the-go playlist, deleting files on the player, dictionary (only with Korean firmware)

Pros

Excellent audio quality, very strong amplifier
Excellent video quality, very good screen
Excellent battery life
SD/SDHC card slot can go up to 16GB
TV output (with optional cable)
Huge variety of supported audio codecs Mp3, Wma, Ogg, Flac, Wav
BBE audio enhancements
Preset slots for various EQ and BBE settings
Line-in (with optional cable), FM, and voice recording
UMS Mass Storage Class, works on any modern operating system without any software (but MTP also available)
Audio tracks sorted by file/folder, next to ID3 browsing
Informative screen
Fast, responsive menu
Standard Mini-USB jack for data transfer and charging
Can customize your own skins

Cons

Touch screen control isn't overly user-friendly or time saving
Not enough hardware buttons for comfortable operation, no remote control available, and also no dedicated play/pause/back/skip button while listening
Impractical stylus/stand design
Records only to WMA, not MP3 or WAV
Absurdly high bitrate for MPEG4, but no bigger video size than 320 x 240 supported (for TV out)
Still no gapless playback
Useless Stylus but good for a stand to support the player
No Software Video Converter for Macintosh.

Accessories- ☆ ☆ ☆
In the box there are earphones, Quick Guide Booklet, an AC Adapter, Installation CD, and a USB Cable. Other accessories are sold separately, such as the TV-out cable, line/mic-in cable converter, cases, and screen protectors. They should give a TV-out cable due to how small the player is.

Design-☆ ☆ ☆
The player itself is small and it could be a problem for people with large fingers. Overall the player is considered to be great. Build quality seems solid, and the weight feels right. It is not attractive comparing to other mp3 players on the market but this player is overall good.

User Interface

Navigation Controls- ☆ ☆ ☆
I find it easy to navigate through songs and with the slide function instead of taping the side to get to scroll down the page. Overall the firmware still has some bugs but with the latest firmware, I recommend it due to fixes.

GUI-☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
The main screen provides direct access to all major functions of the D2: Audio, Video, Picture, Text, Radio, Record, and Settings. I also liked how many languages this player can take. For me, I like how it shows my music in Korean, Japanese, Chinese and Thai. I was surprised that it shows Thai because not a lot of players really do that. I also flashed the player with the Korean firmware because it has more features than the North American firmware.

Battery- ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
I’m amazed about the battery life. It is very good. I got to the maximum of 50 hours one time just letting it play my music on repeat without charging. I mostly charge my player when I sleep so mostly I don’t have any problems in getting the player to be dead. I didn’t have any complaints and worries about the Cowon D2 battery life. Also there are two ways you can charge it by plugging it to a USB or using the AC Adapter. Keep in mind that when using USB to charge, you can’t play music. Using the AC Adapter would be better.

Features

SD/SDHC- Having an SD card slot with the player is important. I thought this was a great feature because when you are tired with the old songs, you can always change SD cards for new music or any other media.

FM Radio- Having a radio built in is a must. I found the reception to be very good and also you can record the radio while listening.

Transferring Files/Removable Disk- You can store files anywhere on the FAT16/32 formatted internal memory or on the SD card and access them on any modern operating system. The only downside is the USB transfer speeds of 35-40 Mb/s, very slow considering USB 2.0 is capable of 480 Mb/s. With recent firmware versions the player can also be switched to MTP operation, a transfer protocol that only works well on Windows XP and Vista.

Other Features

Photo viewer- The supported format for the image viewer is JPEG, and there are no size limits. It is possible to zoom and rotate images, or pan and scan around them. Pan and scan works very well (this is where the touch screen really makes for a useful interface), and it's also possible to run a slide show. The speed of the slide show is adjustable and can be paused or stopped. Music playback continues while viewing images.

Audio- ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
EQ Sound Options- The player gives excellent features with sound options. I like the BBE Mach Bass and the customizable EQs that it comes with. Sound quality is excellent also because it not only supports MP3, it supports OGG, FLAC, WAV, and WMA.

Video- ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Video quality is very good also in using Cowon’s converting software. I was amazed the clarity of the screen resolution.

Conversion- ☆ ☆ ☆
Converting videos would be time consuming due to rendering. I mostly put all the videos on a queue list and let it render on its own. I found no problem with the software for Windows other than there is no software for the Mac.

Online Videos by Veoh.com

by Parris Milly

ARCHOS Redefines Mobile Internet with its Internet Media Tablets

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:51:47 +0000

August 20, 2008 – Between WiFi hotspots and 3G mobile networks, consumers can access the Internet almost anywhere, and more than half of Americans (62-percent) are engaging in digital activities away from home or work today. ARCHOS introduced today its new line of breakthrough portable devices, Internet Media Tablets (IMTs), that give people an entirely new way to enjoy the Web, digital media and TV on ultra-thin, extremely fast handheld tablets.

The new line of ARCHOS IMTs includes the ARCHOS 5, ARCHOS 5G and ARCHOS 7, which feature a sleek new design, high resolution touch-screens, and the ultra-fast speeds of a PC. With up to 320GB storage, the new ARCHOS Tablets offer the largest hard drives of any handheld player, and enough space to hold up to 300 full-length movies, thousands of songs, or millions of photos. Additional new features include an email application, redesigned user interface, high-definition (HD) video playback, and an integrated multimedia platform that uses a WiFi and/or 3.5G connection for extremely fast Web access anytime, anywhere.

The ARCHOS 5G is the first ARCHOS device equipped with a built-in 3.5G/HSDPA built-in modem and SIM card slot, letting users quickly access a mobile broadband network using their data plan and SIM card from their mobile phone. The ARCHOS 5 and ARCHOS 7 are 3.5G capable if used with the 3.5G plug-in and accessories.

“With the steady growth of mobile Internet adoption and easier ways to access the Internet and digital media, ARCHOS is delivering a fast, uncompromised Web browsing and entertainment experience on a portable device,” said Henri Crohas, ARCHOS chief executive officer. “The Internet Media Tablet redefines media on the move, and for the first time gives consumers the ability to be connected 24/7 with a PC-like experience in the palm of their hand. The IMTs not only provide true Web browsing, but also let people store and enjoy their entire media collections and TV anywhere and everywhere.”

Impressive New Design and Performance to Fit Your Mobile Lifestyle

New Sleek Design and Interface: The ARCHOS IMTs feature an ultra-thin design with black stainless steel casing, and redesigned user interface for one-touch access to content and customization, such as home screen shortcuts.
Large Touch Screens: The new line includes brilliant 5- and 7-inch touch-screens, 800x480 high resolution to view Web pages in full view without scrolling or zooming, and expanded battery life.
PC-Like Performance: The IMT line is equipped with four times more speed, with the world’s first implementation of the ARM Cortex superscalar microprocessor.

Uncompromised Web Surfing in the Palm of Your Hand

Fastest Web Experience: New processing power, free Web browser, and full-page viewing without scrolling left to right make the IMTs the best Web viewing portables.
Integrated Flash: Provides access to favorite TV shows, online video sites, popular Web TV and radio stations, and thousands of widgets like weather, sports scores or a calculator.
Email Application: Consumers can manage multiple accounts, easily view, send and receive their email, synchronize contacts, and store attachments, all using a wide touch-screen QWERTY keyboard.

Your Entire Digital Library on a Thin, Handheld Tablet

Streaming Web TV and Radio: Free plug-in lets consumers stream thousands of Web TV channels and more than 10,000 radio stations directly to the IMT.
Anywhere Entertainment: Consumers can enjoy favorite videos, music and photos directly on the IMT, listen to tunes while surfing the Web or checking email, transfer photos from digital camera, and make customized slideshows to share with friends.
The ARCHOS Media Club: Offers the latest online content such as movies, TV shows, music, and games from a range of providers. With one-touch access from the home screen, users can download content for rent or purchase directly onto the Tablet. True TV Experience at Home or on the Go
TV Recording: With the optional DVR station accessory, ARCHOS IMTs offer a fast and easy way to record and playback favorite TV programs and movies directly on the Tablet or TV.
TV Program Guide: With the integrated TV Program Guide, users can easily schedule and record programs and now with the optional HD plug-in, they will be able to enjoy HD playback of movies on the high-resolution Tablets or on the TV.
Internet on TV: When connected to the DVR station, the ARCHOS 5, ARCHOS 5G and ARCHOS 7 give users access to the Internet, music collections, photos, and their PC through wireless streaming from the PC to the comfort of their couch.
Live TV Anywhere: TVportation lets consumers broadcast their live home TV directly onto the Tablet, Smartphone, or laptop anywhere in the world with a WiFi connection.

Personalize with Plug-Ins and Accessories

ARCHOS Tablets provide the ultimate level of personalization through a host of optional plug-ins and accessories:

Plug-Ins: 3.5G, high-definition video (720p resolution), free Web Browser, free Web TV and Radio, free TV Program Guide, TVportation, and Cinema and Video Podcast.
Accessories: DVR Station, Mini-Dock, GPS In-Car Holder, Helmet Cam, and more.

All Plug-ins can be purchased or downloaded directly via the Media Club icon on the device, and plug-ins and accessories are available from the ARCHOS store at www.archos.com.

Pricing and Availability

The ARCHOS 5 IMTs will be available from retailers such as Amazon.com, Best Buy Canada, B&H, Circuit City, Future Shop, In Motion, Walmart.com, and the ARCHOS Website beginning September 2008. The ARCHOS 7 will be available in October 2008 and the ARCHOS 5G will be available early 2009. Retail pricing is as follows:

ARCHOS 5: 60GB: $349.99, 120GB: $399.99, and 250GB: $449.99 (U.S. and Canadian)
ARCHOS 7: 160GB: $449.99, 320GB: $549.99
ARCHOS 5G: 30GB: $549.99

Order information and customer support details are available on the ARCHOS Web site at www.archos.com.

SOURCE ARCHOS

AT&T and LG Mobile Phones Introduce Invision

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:45:18 +0000

Aug. 20, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Visionaries of video with a voracious vent for mobile viewing rejoice! AT&T Inc. and LG Electronics (LG Mobile Phones) today announced the availability of the LG Invision, a new multimedia device for users who want the best in video on their mobile phone.

The LG Invision, the third iconic device to offer AT&T Mobile TV(1), is the smallest Mobile TV-capable phone in the U.S., at just a little more than 4 inches tall, 2 inches wide and less than one-half an inch thick. With its crystal-clear screen, TV fanatics can enjoy watching their favorite programming, including major college football games on CBS Mobile, ESPN Mobile TV, FOX Mobile and NBC2GO. Invision also offers Video Share calling and a 1.3 megapixel camera.

Running on the nation's fastest third-generation (3G) network, the Invision is pre-loaded with more than just video features, including AT&T Mobile Music, which provides fast access to downloadable music from eMusic, sideloading compatibility from Napster To Go and any unrestricted MP3 audio files and streaming digital radio by XM Radio Mobile(2). With Bluetooth 2.0 capabilities, you can wirelessly access music, listen to AT&T Mobile TV and make calls hands-free anytime.

"Invision's unique design makes it AT&T's smallest mobile phone to feature Mobile TV," said Carlton Hill, vice president of Devices and Product Development for AT&T's wireless operations. "Walking around town with live TV in your pocket has never been easier."

Ehtisham Rabbani, vice president of Product Strategy and Marketing at LG Mobile Phones, said: "LG continues to focus on what consumers are craving from their mobile phones, and the Invision is an example of our effort to offer an easy-to-use multimedia mobile device at an affordable price. The Invision incorporates all of the latest entertainment technologies in a sleek form factor that is sure to get noticed."

AT&T's 3G network is the nation's fastest, according to third-party data, and allows 3G mobile phones to reach speeds of up to 1.4 megabits per second. AT&T offers 3G in more than 305 major metropolitan areas and will reach nearly 350 by the end of 2008. AT&T Mobile TV is available in 58 markets. For a map of available markets and more info about Mobile TV, visit www.att.com/mobiletv.

The Invision is available in all company-owned AT&T stores and online at www.wireless.att.com for $99.99 with a new two-year agreement and $50 mail-in rebate(3). For the complete array of AT&T offerings, visit www.att.com.

(1) Mobile TV is available in three packages: Mobile TV Plus ($30 per month) includes unlimited access to all Mobile TV channels, unlimited MEdia Net and unlimited CV mobile video. Mobile TV Basic ($15 per month) includes unlimited access to all Mobile TV channels. Mobile TV Basic Limited ($13 per month) includes access to four Mobile TV channels: CBS Mobile, FOX Mobile, NBC 2Go and NBC News2Go.

(2) XM Radio Mobile offers access to 25 of the most popular commercial-free satellite music channels for $8.99 per month.

(3) For the Invision pay $149.99, and after mail-in rebate, receive $50 AT&T promotion card. A two-year service agreement is also required. AT&T promotion card valid wherever major credit cards are accepted and for 120 days after issue date. May be used to pay wireless bill. Not redeemable for cash and cannot be used for cash withdrawal at ATMs or at automated gas pumps.

SOURCE AT&T Inc.

The Sims 3 in Stores February 20, 2009

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:31:44 +0000

August 20, 2008 -- Electronic Arts Inc. today announced at the Leipzig Games Convention that The Sims 3, the highly anticipated next-generation flagship PC game from The Sims Label, will be available at retailers worldwide and available by digital download on February 20, 2009. The freedom of The Sims 3 will inspire you with endless creative possibilities and amuse you with unexpected moments of surprise and mischief. The feature-set includes a new seamless, open neighborhood, new Create-a-Sim, new unique personality traits, new unlimited customization and new gameplay that’s quick and rewarding.

The Sims 3 Collector’s Edition will also be in stores on February 20, 2009. The Sims 3 Collector’s Edition will include the full game along with additional collectable The Sims merchandise and a bonus in-game Italian-Style Sports Car unavailable elsewhere. A limited number of copies of The Sims 3 Collector’s Edition will be available worldwide, and those who pre-order the product from select retailers will receive an additional exclusive in-game vintage sports car and a collectible poster that is a first look at the neighborhood, all available while supplies last.

“I’m excited to get the next-generation flagship PC game from The Sims Label, The Sims 3, into player’s hands worldwide on February 20,” said Rod Humble, Head of The Sims Studio. “The Sims 3 Collector’s Edition, launching on the same day, will offer a very special Sims experience to our loyal players.”

The Sims 3 features a brand new engine that allows you to immerse your unique Sims in an open living neighborhood where they can roam and explore all new surroundings including the beach, mountains and town center. The neighborhood is alive and constantly evolving so what happens to a Sim on one side of the neighborhood could impact your Sims on the other side of town! If your Sims are in the right place at the right time, who knows what might happen? And now for the first time, your Sims have distinctive personalities thanks to a range of all-new personality traits. You have the option to select from dozens of personality traits such as brave, artistic, kleptomaniac, clumsy, paranoid and romantic. Combine up to five traits to create an endless number of truly diverse individuals.

The all-new Create-a-Sim allows you to completely customize your Sims’ appearances making every Sim unique. The feature is easy-to-use and more powerful than ever, letting you fine-tune every aspect of your Sims face, customize their hair color, select the exact shade of their skin tone and determine much more to make lifelike Sims. It’s never been easier to make Sims that are thin, full-figured or muscular and everything in between! In true The Sims fashion, you can customize everything. The Sims 3 allows for infinite possibilities to design the interior and exterior of your Sims surroundings.

Additionally, you can enjoy the challenge of short-term and long-term goals and then reap the rewards! Based on personality traits, skills and career choices, your Sims have short and long term Wishes that provide constant fun challenges, things to do and achieve. You have the ultimate freedom to choose whether to fulfill their destiny, giving them lifetime happiness and rewards or not! Will your Sim skyrocket from latrine cleaner to an astronaut, go from being a rabid fan to a sports legend or will you choose an alternate destiny? In The Sims 3, life is what you make it!

The Sims 3 Collector’s Edition will include:

The Sims 3 Game for PC
The Sims Plumbob USB Drive with matching Green Carabiner
Exclusive In-Game Italian-Style Sports Car
Tips and hints guide
The Sims 3 Plumbob Stickers

For more information about The Sims 3, please go to www.TheSims3.com.

SOURCE Electronic Arts

Quicken Beam Helps Consumers Keep Money in Their Pockets

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:42:41 +0000

August 20, 2008--Intuit Inc. today released a publicly available beta version of Quicken Beam, a new service that works on any cell phone or mobile device and is designed to give consumers instant access to their bank balances and recent activity. Quicken Beam will help consumers spend within their means and avoid overdrawing their accounts. And it’s free. This, along with other early versions and new releases of Intuit offerings, is available at IntuitLabs.com, where visitors can try them, provide feedback and talk online with members of the design team.

Last year, U.S. consumers paid almost $19 billion because they overspent their account balances. With Quicken Beam, consumers will know in an instant if the movie ticket they’re about to purchase will exceed their available balance or credit limit. Similarly, being able to easily monitor account activity on the go means consumers no longer have to worry about being unaware victims of identity theft that puts their money and credit rating at risk. Last year, there were 8.1 million victims of identity fraud in the U.S., totaling $45 billion. The hardest hit by both of these trends are people ages 18 to 34.

With no data entry, separate login screens, or Web browser required, Quicken Beam lets consumers use their cell phone or mobile device to access their accounts so they know exactly how much they have to spend and what recent activity has taken place. Quicken Beam enables consumers to:

Request instant account balance updates with a simple text message to see their balance and what transactions have cleared before it’s too late.
Receive automatic low-balance alerts via text messages to their mobile device when their balance gets close to triggering a fee.
Set additional alerts to be informed of major activity so they can catch identity theft early and keep credit card spending in check.
View all their bank and credit card accounts in one place, anytime, from anywhere.

Quicken Beam is the latest iteration of classic Intuit simplicity and can be found at www.intuitlabs.com. Intuit Labs is the place to discover and influence the development of cool new products and services from Intuit. The site includes applications that address several important customer problems in a range of categories for consumers and small businesses.

Links:

Quicken Beam: www.intuitlabs.com/apps/quicken-beam

Intuit Labs Blog: http://intuitlabs.com/blog

Innovation on Fast Forward at Intuit: www.accesspr.com/in/labs

QuickBooks Online on the iPhone: http://intuitlabs.com/apps/qboe-on-iphone

SOURCE Intuit

Treo Pro Smartphone Balances Simplicity and Productivity

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:26:44 +0000

Aug 20, 2008 -- Palm, Inc. today introduced Treo Pro, an effortlessly usable smartphone for businesses that want to simplify their IT infrastructures and lower costs, and for users who want to stay on top of their professional and personal lives. With its streamlined design and Palm shortcuts layered on Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, Treo Pro is a unique combination of sleek simplicity and robust productivity -- including email, Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities(1) -- that meets the needs of businesses and end users alike. Treo Pro, which will be available from Vodafone and O2 in Europe(2) and from Telstra in Australia, also will be available in an unlocked version in the United States, Europe and Asia Pacific.

"Businesses want the control and savings that Windows Mobile affords, in an innovative and elegant package that keeps their users happy. That's where Palm comes in," said Ed Colligan, president and chief executive officer, Palm, Inc. "Everything about Treo Pro -- from the hardware design to the packaging and accessories -- embodies the elegant and simplified end-to-end experience that our customers expect from Palm."

The Treo Pro smartphone lets IT managers support an increasingly mobile work force with the ease of use and robust feature set business professionals demand. Besides the benefits of lower costs and increased productivity, Treo Pro can deliver the increased security, easier device management and access to information on the corporate network that Windows Mobile 6.1 provides.

Users can quickly respond to business and personal email, access the web, stay on top of appointments and contacts, and use Wi-Fi or GPS on the go.(1) Treo Pro's thin design blends a flush, high-resolution color touch screen and a full QWERTY keyboard with a removable battery that packs up to five hours of talk time and enough strength for the business user's needs, offering a powerful yet effortless mobile experience.

"I'm really happy with Treo Pro -- it's a technology leap from a device design and capability standpoint, enhancing Palm's presence in the Windows Mobile realm," said Wasif Malik, senior systems consultant, Student Educational Services & Mobile Solutions, Ohio State University Medical Center. "It's cleverly designed for Windows Mobile, with a large touch screen, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and all the productivity applications for Windows Mobile 6 in a much thinner design."

Palm Experience on Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional

The Treo Pro smartphone, based on the popular Windows Mobile platform, helps optimize business processes by effortlessly mobilizing users with enhancements to the Windows Mobile 6.1 platform, including:

One-touch Wi-Fi button --Easy, fast Wi-Fi connection experience (802.11b/g).(1)
Today screen enhancements -- Web search directly from the Today screen.
Ringer switch -- Silences the device immediately.
Screen saver -- Lets users know at a glance -- without turning on the device -- what time it is and whether they've missed a call or have a new SMS/MMS message.
New voicemail indicator -- The center button flashes to let users know that a voicemail is waiting.(3)
Dedicated email and calendar buttons -- Fast one-button access.

"Windows Mobile is delivering mobile solutions that help businesses address the changing competitive landscape," said Andrew Lees, senior vice president of Microsoft's Mobile Communications Business. "The Treo Pro smartphone brings together a powerful combination of Palm's feature innovations and Windows Mobile 6.1, providing access to the information people need when away from the office."

Lower Costs, Increased Productivity

With Treo Pro, businesses can quickly and easily deploy a secure, low-cost and compatible infrastructure for their mobile workforce by taking advantage of a tightly integrated Palm and Windows Mobile 6.1 solution, including:

Microsoft Direct Push Technology(4) -- Direct connection to Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 SP2 or 2007 gives users up-to-date email, contacts and calendars.
Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008 -- With the deployment of Mobile Device Manager, the Treo Pro can deliver increased security, easier smartphone management, and access to information on the corporate network. IT professionals can confidently manage large Treo Pro deployments.
Thousands of applications available for Windows Mobile -- Businesses can extend mobility beyond email to optimize business processes.
World phone -- With high-speed UMTS/HSDPA network capabilities(5), Treo Pro is a sleek world phone that's ideal for companies with an international work force.
Integrated GPS -- Users can access maps, turn-by-turn directions and point-of-interest (POI) searches.(1)
Support and training -- Palm shortcuts make Treo Pro so easy to use, businesses can spend less on training and support for their users. End-to-end enterprise support means companies can expand the scope of their mobile deployments without putting a strain on internal support personnel.
Familiar Windows experience -- Users can browse the web with built-in Internet Explorer Mobile; open, view, and edit Word and Excel compatible files; review PowerPoint presentations and PDF files; and open ZIP files remotely.

Pricing and Availability

Treo Pro will be available in September in Europe(2) through Vodafone (from free to EUR 399 with contract) and O2 (pricing is available from O2 direct sales and online business stores), and in Australia through Telstra (from free with contract). It will be available in the United States in the fall through the Palm online store (www.palm.com/store) as well as select Internet, retail and enterprise resellers for a suggested retail price of $549. The U.S. version is unlocked and unsubsidized, giving end users the flexibility to simply insert their existing active SIM card and immediately start using their Treo Pro without a new contract. Detailed regional pricing is available from local resellers and distributors. Additional Treo Pro availability is scheduled to follow worldwide.

The Treo Pro smartphone comes with an international power charger, microUSB cable and a stereo headset (3.5mm). Other accessories designed exclusively for Treo Pro (sold separately) include a vehicle power charger, leather side case, travel microUSB cable, cradle, extra battery, TTY audio adapter, and replacement styli.

More information about the Treo Pro smartphone is available at www.palm.com/TreoPro.

(1) Within wireless coverage area only. Wi-Fi within range of 802.11b/g Wi-Fi network. Some Wi-Fi hotspots require fee for usage. Email, web, and GPS require an account and data services at additional cost. GPS application not available from all carriers. Third-party software may be required. GPS coverage not available in all areas at all times.

(2) Treo Pro will be available from Vodafone in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands, and from O2 in the UK and Ireland.

(3) Within wireless coverage area only. Not available by all mobile service providers.

(4) Microsoft Direct Push Technology requires Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 with SP2 or Exchange Server 2007. Additional fees and software may be needed to comply with corporate IT policy. VPN may be required.

(5) More than 860 GSM networks provide coverage in 220 regions worldwide. Within UMTS/HSDPA data coverage area only. Actual data speeds vary based on network capacity and application design. Requires data services at additional cost.

SOURCE: Palm, Inc.

Westinghouse Helps to Update and Refresh Your Home with New LCD Displays

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:14:19 +0000

August 20, 2008– This holiday season, Westinghouse Digital Electronics, one of the leading LCD manufacturers in the U.S.*, reinvents your home with the hottest lines of LCD HDTVs, computer monitors and digital photo frames. Gifts from Westinghouse provide a contemporary edge for the entire home with the most up-to-date digital technology. Share the gift of happiness with loved ones this year with high-quality, Westinghouse LCD displays including:

Watch All of Your Favorite Movies and TV Shows in HDTV for an Affordable Cost: Transform your kitchen with 16” PT-16H610S ($349.99), a dual-hinged lifestyle HDTV that flips and folds like a contortionist to fit easily into any room in the home, or the 19” PT-19H140S ($399 MSRP) HDTV that is designed for easy portability. Additionally, the 32” W3223 ($549 MSRP) and 26” W2613 ($449 MSRP) LCD HDTVs feature piano gloss bezels that complement any home décor. They also provide viewers with 720p (1366 x 768) high resolution and feature an ATSC/NTSC/ClearQAM tuner, multiple HD input connectors including 2 HDMI, and supports all TV formats (1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i).

Westinghouse also provides its SK series that feature patented technologies, including DayBright panel technology for spectacular daytime and nighttime viewing and SpineDesign for easy cable management and connector access. The 720p (1366 x 768) high-resolution HDTVs support all TV formats and offer multiple HD input connectors including 2 HDMI and feature an ATSC/NTSC/ClearQAM tuner. With swift response times, the 720p HDTVs are ideal for both console and PC gaming. Renovate your home in style with a 720p HDTV from Westinghouse. The 720p SK-Series features the 26” SK-26H730S ($449 MSRP) and the 32” SK-32H540S ($549 MSRP).

Consolidate Your Living Room with the All-in-One LCD HDTV/DVD Player Combo Units: Ditch unnecessary cables and hassle with the all-in-one LCD HDTV/DVD player combo units from Westinghouse. Featuring an integrated Front Loading DVD player and PixelDirect technology, the combo unit provides consumers with the ultimate digital video display. The high-contrast, high-resolution combo units promise you and your loved ones an exceptional viewing experience as you kick back to watch your favorite programs and movies. Combo units featuring 720p resolution include the 26” SK-26H570D ($649 MSRP) and 32” SK-32H570D ($749 MSRP). The 40” VK-40F580D ($1,049 MSRP) is the first combo unit to offer full 1080p resolution.

Share Your Favorite Classics with the Whole Family, Thanks to the High-End 1080p TX Series LCD HDTV: Looking for the highest quality LCD HDTVs available in home entertainment? The Westinghouse TX-42F430S delivers high-end HDTV solutions with razor-sharp images, high contrast picture and full color spectrum technology. Keep the whole family happy year round with preset video modes, which allow viewers to choose from a menu of customized viewing settings including movies, games and sports. The TX-42F430S also increases performance with 1080Pure for 1080p resolution out of all HD connectors, including components and VGA, an ultra high 5000:1 contrast ratio, and four HDMI connectors. The 42” TX-42F430S LCD HDTV has an MSRP of $999.

Play Your New Video Games on Westinghouse Digital LCD Computer Monitors: The new Westinghouse 26” L2610NW LCD computer monitor features an ultra high 1920 x 1200 resolution that displays beyond 1080p quality. The 22’’ L2210NM is the ideal monitor for working with graphics applications and viewing architectural drawings with its high 1680 x 1050 resolution and dynamic contrast ratio of 3000:1 to provide incredible image quality and crisp digital images. The 19’’ L1916HW enhances Westinghouse Digital’s 19’’ monitor lineup with a high 1680 x 1050 resolution and a dynamic contrast ratio of 3000:1. Whether watching films, playing video games or shopping on the Web, these monitors are a great addition for the laptop and ensure a high-quality viewing experience with dynamic contrast and a quick response time. The Westinghouse monitor lineup includes 26’’ L2610NW ($449 MSRP) the 22’’ L2210NW ($249 MSRP); and the 19’’ L1916HW ($199 MSRP).

Relive Joyous Occasions with Digital Photo Frames: Take a walk down memory lane with Westinghouse’s newest line of digital photo frames, which highlight timeless moments from all of your important events. From Christmas morning traditions to New Year’s Eve festivities, the Westinghouse digital photo frames can display several images simultaneously with patented MosaicView technology. Offered with black or wood framing, the digital photo frames not only display still images, but also feature video viewing capabilities with built-in speakers. With expanded memory, high-resolution digital panels and a wide range of memory card capability, these units are an ideal gift for anyone on your holiday gift list. Westinghouse’s new array of digital photo frames includes the 14.1” DPF-1411 ($249 MSRP); 10.2” DPF-1021 ($179 MSRP); 8” DPF-0804 ($119 MSRP) and 7” DPF-0703 ($89 MSRP).

For more information, please visit www.westinghousedigital.com.

* The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service, based on unit sales, Year to Date 2008.

SOURCE Westinghouse Digital Electronics

Photo Questions Answered: Archiving Photos, Data

jessica — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:00:55 +0000

Questions just keep rolling in at Verbatim’s user information site www.photostorageguide.com. General questions from people on how to gather, save, protect their family moments/memories photos and videos.

Here are answers to some of the latest questions (and answers) on archiving photos:

Q. Why are CDs and DVDs the best way to archive?

A. Since it is estimated that one out of seven computer hard drives "crash" within the first year, it could be dangerous to rely on storing irreplaceable photos on a hard drive alone. Optical discs (CD, DVD) are a very economical and reliable way to archive photos. For added security, write-once CD-Rs and DVD-Rs should be used and extra copies should be made that can be stored at another location. Users can add to the disc but cannot alter the content stored on the discs. The portability of CDs and DVDs also makes them easy to take with you in the event of an environmental disaster.

With the latest Archival Gold CD-R and DVD-R discs your digital content can be safe for 100 years or more when properly stored. While it is true, the archival discs are more expensive than standard discs, it is often better than the alternatives: re-recording your photos periodically or risking their loss.

Q. I’m considering buying an external hard drive to backup my data. What features should I look for?

A. Adding an external hard drive is an easy way to meet your backup storage requirements. It can also be used to restore your photos in case your computer's drive becomes corrupted or unstable. Here’s what to look for when selecting an external hard drive for backup:

Determine the capacity you need. As a rule of thumb, this can be calculated by multiplying your current data backup storage by at least three. For instance, if your data backups are currently 50 GB, do not buy a model less than 150GB. This is because your data storage needs will continue to increase and you will want a drive that can handle your growing requirements.
Check your computer’s connectivity ports. Do you need USB (for Windows systems) or FireWire (for Macs) connectivity? To identify the types of ports installed on your computer, check the specifications that came with your PC or visit the manufacturer’s web site. Some companies, such as Verbatim, offer external hard drives that support both USB and FireWire.
Compare the software and security features offered with various drives.
Check online product reviews and select a reliable brand

Q. Why shouldn’t I use rewritable discs to archive my photos?

A. Unlike rewritable media, which allows data to be rewritten and overwritten repeatedly, write-once media does not allow data to be overwritten, making it ideal for long-term archiving. As long as there is space available on the disc, data can always be added but never altered or deleted.

For more photo tips and solutions, visit PhotoStorageGuide.com.

Uniquely Singapore Racer takes Online Gamers on a Virtual Race through Singapore

jessica — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:11:35 +0000

August 2008 – Beginning 8 August 2008, online racing enthusiasts around the world can start their engines and race down the streets of Marina Centre to win themselves a return trip for two to Singapore amongst many other attractive prizes. Developed by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), the Uniquely Singapore Racer is a 3D interactive flash application that allows online players to experience the sights and attractions in downtown Singapore as they vie to complete a race lap in the shortest time.

“With the Uniquely Singapore Racer, virtual racing enthusiasts can zoom down the streets of Singapore ahead of the FORMULA ONE racing celebrities who will take to Singapore’s street circuit next month at the world’s first night race. Showcasing some of Singapore’s characteristic landmarks including the St Andrew’s Cathedral, City Hall and Old Supreme Court Building, the Esplanade, the Singapore Flyer and even The Marina Bay Sands when it is built, the Uniquely Singapore Racer promises a fun and informative ride that will interest even avid gamers. Those in search of a greater challenge can also opt for the night mode as they speed through thrilling curves and corners” said Mr Ken Low, Assistant Chief Executive (Brand and Communications) of the Singapore Tourism Board, noting that the Uniquely Singapore Racer was created in a first person perspective for players to enjoy a more interactive gaming experience.

The Uniquely Singapore Racer is available at www.visitsingapore.com/racer. Tapping on the increasingly popularity of social media sites, there is also a Uniquely Singapore Racer Facebook application which allows players to post their scores on their Facebook profile and challenge friends to beat their best times.

The overseas player who clocks the fastest time will stand a chance to win the grand prize of a pair of return economy airfares to Singapore and a 3 day 2 night stay for two in a hotel. The fastest racer residing in Singapore will be rewarded with a pair of tickets to one of the highlight events of the inaugural Singapore GP Season - a lifestyle season packed with top-notch events to complement the FORMULA ONE race. The next 50 winners will receive a Uniquely Singapore goodie bag each.

The contest ends on 14 September 2008 and winners will be announced via the Uniquely Singapore Racer website on 18 September 2008. Fans of the Uniquely Singapore Racer can continue their virtual race even after the contest.

SOURCE Singapore Tourism Board

Starwood Caribbean Offers Travel Interruption Policy

jessica — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:52:47 +0000

August 19, 2008 – With the Atlantic hurricane season under way, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. continues to relieve travelers’ concerns and worries with its “Starwood Caribbean Travel Interruption Policy.” The policy protects groups and individual travelers in the event of a hurricane and provides peace of mind for those vacationing at Starwood resorts throughout the Caribbean.

The Travel Interruption Policy goes in to effect when an area where a Starwood Caribbean resort is located is placed under a Hurricane Watch or Hurricane Warning. Guests holding confirmed and non-refundable deposited reservations who cannot travel to a Starwood Caribbean resort due to a hurricane closure of the resort or airport will receive the option of a full refund or a one-room category upgrade on their next stay if they visit within a year.

Guests whose vacation at a Starwood Caribbean resort is interrupted by a hurricane and who wish to depart early will not be charged a cancellation fee and will receive a refund for any unused portion of their deposit. Starwood will replace the balance of a reservation for individual and transient and group bookings, including room and applicable taxes. Replacement vacations must be taken at the resort within one calendar year. Reservations for comparable accommodations are based on availability and black-out dates apply.

Any commission owed to travel agents will be paid on the stay interrupted by the hurricane. Other expenses including but not limited to airfare, food and beverage, or catered services are not included or covered by this policy. The policy is subject to change at management’s discretion at any time without notice. Certain other terms and conditions apply.

Starwood Caribbean Travel Interruption Policy applies to a hurricane as defined and validated by the National Hurricane Center only. A hurricane is typically a tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind is 74 mph or greater. Hurricane season runs through November 30.

SOURCE Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.